The Logan Bartlett Show EP 141 Ben Lamm (Founder & CEO, Colossal Biosciences) On The Breakthroughs Making De-Extinction Actually Possible
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May 2, 2025 
Ben Lamm, founder and CEO of Colossal Biosciences, dives into the ambitious world of de-extinction, aiming to bring back creatures like the woolly mammoth and dire wolf. He discusses the cutting-edge gene editing techniques and ethical concerns tied to reviving extinct species. The conversation also touches on the innovative business models in biotechnology and the socio-economic impacts of these advancements. From the science behind genetic engineering to the potential for eco-tourism, it's a fascinating blend of tech and conservation.
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Colossal's Mission and Approach
- Colossal Biosciences is the world's first de-extinction and species preservation company using genetic engineering.
- They open source all technology and aim to solve hard genotype to phenotype challenges for conservation.
Accidental Path to De-Extinction
- Ben Lamm, a software entrepreneur, reached out to George Church and discovered de-extinction potential.
- With enough capital, Church would focus on bringing back extinct species like the mammoth and conservation tech.
Comparative Genomics for Editing
- Mammoths are closer to Asian elephants than Asian elephants are to African elephants.
- Identifying core genes for key traits allows making about 85 edits to recreate mammoth phenotypes.